Diane-----thanks for this information---finally something interesting within driving distance---- I'm still having trouble walking ----If only I could trust my legs I would love to go to this. It sounds so wonderful Florence

FLAMINGO PARK HISTORIC HOMES'GARDEN TOUR Apr.5 3-7pm Walking tour of 10 gardens in historic WPB neighborhood. Food, wine, entertainment & evening ambiance as the sun sets on West Palm Beach. Trolley service. Tickets avail online www.HistoricHomeTours.com or at check-in:I95 exit & go East on Okeechobee Blvd,South on Parker Ave to Howard Park(1/4mi.on east side)WPB. Tickets $22, in advance $17.Info call:561-802-1797

Interesting! I have been researching another matter and can give you some shortcut answers to your question. Looking into my crystal ball I see a vacation trip to the U. of Delaware Library in your future. The first successful nursery in the States was started in PA. about 1811-1903 by David Landreth and Sons. Google the nursery name and you will find all sorts of helpful information and leads to search further including the fact that the U. of Delaware has a complete collection of all the old nursery catalogs. This is where anyone researching early plants should begin such a historical project. There are, of course, books on the subject which you will find listed as you Google. May I also suggest, due to your proximity to Gettysburg and the age of the property that you might think about purchasing a good metal detector. It is very possible that you may be able to locate old wells, privy spots, dump areas, battle sites with all sorts of treasures. Neighbors may also give you permission to check their properties. A world of fun. Wonderful hobby.

Nobody is over reacting, it was just a simple question about asking for permission... Consider this: would you like any passer-by taking off pieces of your plants, whether in pots, ground or wall, without asking? Most likely not. If the plant is not-so-common or really different looking (which is often only because of it growing conditions), many would like to take a piece and soon the original plant could be gone. Also, unfortunately, some ppl hastily take a piece off and just rip it without concern for original plant that could get damaged. These are just couple of very simple reasons why many care...And there could be rare plants that are protected (not saying these were, if yes there is often a sign). I do understand why you took it, and especially one from the steps being walk on. I am sure many of us done it or at least were tempted to do. Even in greenhouses or public gardens - where there are usually many plants - one can get a cutting for asking. Even in the stores - if there are pieces dropped on the floor - why not to take them & save them? - but asking permission will get one further, and if, by a chance, seen by an employee carrying piece of a plant, you would not be considered stealing - which is what often happens.